Terms and Conditions


These terms and conditions ("Terms") govern the agreement between you ("Client" or "you") and Mousebird Safaris  ("Mousebird Safaris " or "we" "us" or the “Company”) for the provision of safari services in Tanzania. 


By booking a safari with us, you acknowledge and agree to be bound by these Terms. Please read them carefully.



1. Booking and Payment:


1.1 By making a booking, the lead named person, the client, on the booking agrees on behalf of all persons detailed on the booking that:



1.2 To secure your booking, a non-refundable deposit of: 



… of the total safari cost (whichever is greater) is required upon booking confirmation. The deposit is deducted from the total safari cost.


1.3. Payment Methods: We accept payment by credit card, bank transfer, or any other payment method as agreed upon by both parties. See payment process details here.


1.4. Final Payment: The remaining balance of the total safari cost is due 90 days before the safari start date. Failure to make the final payment on time may result in the cancellation of your booking.


1.5 If the client makes the initial safari booking less than 90 days before the start of the safari, they are required to pay the full amount of the safari cost, as stated on the quote, at the time of booking and will not have the option to pay in installments.



2. Pricing:


2.1 We reserve the right to amend the price of unsold holidays at any time and correct errors in the prices of confirmed holidays within 7 days of the booking.


2.2 The price of your holiday is subject to change after you have booked only in certain circumstances. These include changes in the price of the carriage of passengers resulting from changes to the cost of fuel or other power sources, the level of taxes or fees imposed by third parties including tourist taxes, landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports, or exchange rates, any or all of which may mean a variation in the price of your holiday after you have booked. However, there will be no change within 20 days of your departure. 


2.3 Please note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your travel due to contractual and other protection in place.



3. Currency Exchange Rates and Conversion Fees:


3.1 Currency of Payment: All safari booking prices and payment amounts are quoted in USD, unless otherwise specified.


3.2 Applicable Exchange Rates: If the client chooses to make payments in a currency different from USD, the applicable exchange rates will be determined at the time of payment. Exchange rates may vary based on prevailing market rates and may be subject to fluctuations.


3.3 Currency Conversion Fees: Clients making payments in a currency different from USD may be subject to currency conversion fees charged by their banks or payment service providers. Such fees are the responsibility of the client and are not included in the safari booking prices.


3.4 Client Consent: By choosing to make payments in a currency other than USD, the client acknowledges and agrees to bear any currency conversion fees and potential variations in the final payment amount due to exchange rate fluctuations.


3.5 Currency Discrepancies: In the event of any discrepancies between the quoted safari prices in USD and the amount received due to currency conversion, the actual amount received in USD by Mousebird Safaris will be considered as the valid payment.


3.6 Refunds and Currency Conversion: In the event of a refund due to cancellation or any other reason, the refund amount will be made in USD, and any currency conversion fees incurred during the refund process will be borne by the client.


3.7 Currency Exchange Notification: Mousebird Safaris will make every effort to notify clients of applicable exchange rates and potential currency conversion fees at the time of payment. However, it is the client's responsibility to stay informed about current exchange rates and any fees that may apply.


Please note that exchange rates are subject to market fluctuations, and Mousebird Safaris is not responsible for any financial losses or discrepancies resulting from changes in exchange rates or currency conversion fees charged by banks or payment service providers. 



4. Client Cancellation and Refunds:


4.1. If you or any other member of your party decides to cancel your confirmed booking, you must notify us in writing. Your notice of cancellation will only take effect when we receive it in writing and it is acknowledged by Mousebird Safaris. Please note proof of postage (whether by Mail or e-mail) is not proof of receipt. You will be responsible for applicable cancellation charges up to the maximum shown below, unless otherwise advised.


4.2 The cancellation charge is calculated as all non-refundable items plus a percentage of the remaining total cost payable by the person(s) canceling. Should a Client cancel a booking 90 days or less prior to the date of departure of the tour for any reason, the client shall be liable to pay a cancellation penalty. The cancellation penalty is calculated by having regard to the nature of the booking, length of notice of cancellation and reasonable potential to find alternative customers. Having regard to the aforementioned factors, the following percentages may be forfeited by the customer in respect of the arranged tour price due to a no-show based on the number of days between receipt of the cancellation notice and the date of the departure:



4.3 We strongly recommend you take out suitable insurance to cover you for possible eventualities that would require you to cancel your holiday.


4.4 The Company shall be entitled to apply any portion of the non-refundable deposit paid by the client toward any cancellation penalty payable in terms hereof.


4.5 When a client cancels a booking that requires a non-refundable item, such as a special permit, the cost of the non-refundable item will be held and will be forfeited. As these will have been purchased well ahead of time. 


4.6 Any fees charged by banking institutions during the refund process will be for the client’s account.


4.7 We aim to process refunds within 30 days of the acknowledged cancellation between the Client and the Company.



5. Cancellation by Mousebird Safaris:


5.1 We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise, and therefore, we reserve the right to cancel or modify your safari due to reasons beyond our control. Such circumstances may include but are not limited to adverse weather conditions, natural disasters, political instability, or insufficient bookings. In the event of cancellation or significant modifications, we will make every effort to provide you with an alternative safari/trip date that suits your convenience. If an alternative date cannot be arranged, we will offer a full refund if applicable.


5.2 We reserve the right, at our absolute discretion, to terminate without notice the booking arrangements of any customer whose behavior poses a threat of causing distress, damage, danger, or annoyance to our customers, our employees, our suppliers, or any third party, or to property. If we, or our suppliers, determine that you are unfit to travel or are likely to cause discomfort or disturbance to others, we shall not be obligated to provide any refund, compensation, or cover any costs. Please note that we cannot control the behavior of other individuals staying at or visiting your holiday accommodation, and we cannot be held responsible for any withdrawal, impairment of facilities, or other loss or damage caused by them. You are strictly prohibited from sharing or sub-letting your accommodation with anyone other than those individuals specified on your booking.


5.3 If the Company makes a major change or cancels the booking after it has been confirmed but before departure, the Client will have the following options:


(a) Accepting the cancellation or changed arrangements;

(b) Opting for another available holiday with the Company (If the chosen alternative is more expensive, the Client must pay the difference, but if it is cheaper, the Company will make an appropriate refund);

(c) In the case of a major change, canceling the holiday and receiving a full refund.


5.4 Force Majeure means unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond the Company's control, the consequences of which neither the Company nor its suppliers could avoid. Such circumstances include but are not limited to war, pandemic, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial disputes, natural or nuclear disasters, fire, flood, government restrictions, adverse weather conditions, or the threat of any of these.


5.5 We will always strive to find alternative solutions within the financial framework, and available accommodation and activity resources available any given time.



6. Safari Alterations:


6.1. Changes by Client: If you wish to modify your safari itinerary after booking confirmation, we will make every effort to accommodate your request. However, additional charges may apply for any changes made.


6.2. Changes by Mousebird Safaris: While we endeavor to adhere to the confirmed safari itinerary, we may need to alter the schedule, accommodations, or activities due to unforeseen circumstances. If such alterations significantly affect the safari experience, we will notify you and provide suitable alternatives.



7. Special Requests:


7.1 Any special requests must be advised to us at the time of booking. You should then confirm your requests in writing. Whilst every effort will be made by us to try and arrange your reasonable special requests, we cannot guarantee that they will be fulfilled. Failure to meet any special request will not be a breach of contract on our part unless the request has been specifically confirmed.



8. Travel Insurance:


8.1. It is mandatory for all clients to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, emergency evacuation, and any other potential risks associated with the safari.


8.2. We reserve the right to refuse or cancel a booking if you do not have personal travel insurance. We will treat any cancellation for this reason as a cancellation by you and the cancellation charges will be payable as set out below. Please read your policy details carefully and take them with you on holiday.


8.3. It is your responsibility to ensure that the insurance you purchase is adequate and appropriate for your particular needs, and covers all travel, cancellation, medical and repatriation liabilities for the holiday. We reserve the right to request full details of your insurance policy however please note that we do not check insurance policies for suitability. You are responsible for indemnifying us in full in the event that we incur any losses or expenses arising out of your failure to take out adequate insurance cover.



9. Health and Safety:


9.1. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable safari experience, it is essential for the Client to inform us of any pre-existing medical conditions (mental or physical) or disabilities that might impact their ability to fully participate in safari activities. Please provide us with full details by writing or emailing us, before we confirm your booking so that we can advise as to the suitability of your chosen arrangements if possible.


9.2 We understand that each client's needs may vary, and we are committed to making every effort to accommodate pre-existing conditions and disabilities. Our aim is to create an inclusive and accessible safari experience for all our clients. However, in certain situations where specific conditions may pose significant safety risks or operational challenges that could compromise the overall well-being of the client or the group, we may have to communicate our inability to accommodate certain conditions.


Please know that such decisions are made with the best interest of all participants in mind, as safety and the overall safari experience remain our top priorities. In case we are unable to accommodate certain conditions, we will openly communicate this to the client and explore alternative options or make necessary adjustments to ensure their comfort and safety throughout the safari.


We encourage open communication between the client and our team to address any health-related concerns or specific needs. Your cooperation in sharing relevant medical information will enable us to better plan and customize the safari experience, making it enjoyable and safe for everyone involved.


9.3. While we prioritize the safety and well-being of our clients, we must acknowledge that certain circumstances may arise that are beyond our control. In such instances, Mousebird Safaris cannot be held responsible for injuries, accidents, or any resulting inconvenience caused during the safari. Clients must comply with the safety guidelines and instructions provided by the guides at all times during the safari. While we take every precaution to ensure your safety during the safari and adhere to strict safety guidelines, certain incidents may still occur due to these uncontrollable factors. We recommend that all clients follow the safety guidelines and instructions provided by our guides at all times to minimize any potential risks. We are not responsible for injuries and accidents caused by circumstances beyond our control. 


9.4 Disclosure of Dietary Restrictions: Customers are required to disclose any dietary restrictions, allergies, or special meal preferences at the time of booking the safari. This information should be provided through the designated reservation form or by contacting our customer service team. Failure to disclose such information may result in difficulties accommodating specific dietary requirements during the safari. Please be aware that in certain remote or restricted areas, providing specialized meals may not be feasible. We recommend contacting us well in advance of the safari to discuss specific dietary requirements.


9.5 Allergy Risks and Medications: Customers with severe food allergies are advised to take all necessary precautions and carry appropriate medications (such as epinephrine auto-injectors) with them during the safari. It is essential to inform our safari guides and staff about any allergies, ensuring they are aware of the situation in case of emergencies.


9.6 Medical Conditions: For customers whose dietary restrictions are related to medical conditions, it is strongly recommended that they consult their physicians before participating in the safari. 


9.7 Cancellation Policy: If a customer's dietary restrictions cannot be adequately accommodated despite prior disclosure, they may choose to cancel their safari participation. In such cases, our standard cancellation policy will apply, and any applicable refund will be subject to the terms outlined in our general terms and conditions.


9.8 Liability Disclaimer: While the safari company will make every effort to accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences, we cannot be held liable for any adverse reactions, illnesses, or dissatisfaction resulting from dietary choices or restrictions. The customer agrees to participate in the safari at their own risk and takes full responsibility for their dietary decisions.



10. Liability:


10.1. The Mousebird Safaris and its agents will not be liable for any loss, injury, damage, delay, or inconvenience caused during the safari, except for liability arising from negligence or willful misconduct.


10.2. The Mousebird Safaris shall not be held responsible for any loss or damage to personal belongings during the safari.



11. Excursions:


11.1 Excursions or other tours that you may choose to book or pay for whilst you are on holiday are not part of your package holiday provided by us. For any excursion or other tour that you book, your contract will be with the operator of the excursion or tour and not with us. We are not responsible for the provision of the excursion or tour or for anything that happens during the course of its provision by the operator.



12. Passport, Visa and Immigration Requirements and Health Formalities:


12.1 It is your responsibility to check and fulfill the passport, visa, health and immigration requirements applicable to your itinerary. You must check requirements for your own specific circumstances with the relevant Embassies and/ or Consulates and your own doctor and Government health authority as applicable. Most countries now require passports to be valid for at least 6 months after your return date. If your passport is in its final year, you should check with the Embassy of the country you are visiting. We do not accept any responsibility if you cannot travel because you have not complied with any passport, visa or immigration requirements.


12.2 The Client is responsible for checking current requirements before departure. It is the Client’s responsibility to ensure that he complies with all applicable requirements and takes with them all documents required for their holiday.


12.3 The Company is not liable for any failure by the Client to discharge these responsibilities and the Client will have to reimburse the Company for any costs it incurs as a

result of such failure on the part of the Client.



13. Accurate Descriptions:


13.1 The Company makes every effort to ensure that all lodges, hotels and camps offered are

described as accurately as possible in our literature, our website and quote. 


13.2 Clients should bear in mind that certain facilities, particularly sports, entertainment and

excursions are subject to demand at any given time. It would not, for instance, be reasonable to

expect an excursion to be run unless there is a demand which makes its operation economically

viable. If a hotel is equipped with air-conditioning, the period and time of functioning of the

system is at the discretion of the hotel management. If the hotel, for example, loses electricity, for a period of time, due to a power outage, this is outside of the Company’s control. 



14. Accommodation:


14.1 Accommodation which forms part of the Client’s booking may only be used by the persons named on the booking form. Subletting is not permitted. 


14.2 The Client must observe the rules of the community (if any) relating to the accommodation and must vacate it by the time specified by the accommodation management on the day of departure. 


14.3 In the very rare event of overbooking by a hotel/lodge/camp of which the Company is not aware before the Client departs, the Client will be offered alternative accommodation on arrival, which will be of a comparable standard if available.


14.4 The Client shall behave properly throughout his holiday and, in particular, must not do or permit to be done anything which might lead to damage to any property, injury to any person, or vitiation of any contract of insurance. 


14.5 The Client will use, occupy and enjoy the accommodation provided as part of his holiday with due care and in a proper manner without allowing the accommodation to become unreasonably soiled. No items, fixtures or fittings shall be removed from the accommodation or left outside at any time. The Client will be responsible for the cost of repairing or replacing any lost, broken or damaged items, including lost keys.



15. Delays and other Travel Information:


15.1 In some destinations, a compulsory government tax may be applicable and will be charged to you locally.


15.2 The latest flight timings will be shown on your tickets. You should check your tickets very carefully immediately upon receipt to ensure you have the correct flight times. If flight times change after tickets have been dispatched, we will contact you as soon as we can to let you know. 


15.3 Flight times are provided by Airlines and are subject to change because of such matters as air traffic control restrictions, weather conditions and technical problems. Flight timings are

therefore estimates only and cannot be guaranteed. The Company will not be liable if a flight is

delayed. The Client may be entitled to claim under the flight delay section of your travel insurance policy. As between the Client and any individual airlines, the airline’s standard conditions of carriage will apply. These may limit or exclude liability in accordance with relevant international Conventions. 


15.4 We cannot accept liability for any delay that is due to rescheduling times by the airline or airline authorities or caused by unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances. 



16. Complaints.


16.1 If you encounter any problems or have any complaints during your holiday, we kindly request that you inform the relevant supplier or our local representatives immediately. This allows us the opportunity to address the issue promptly and make every effort to resolve it to your satisfaction.


16.2 In the event that the matter cannot be resolved on the spot, we ask that you contact our offices as soon as possible by calling +255 753 496 324 or emailing mousebirdafrica@gmail.com. Our dedicated customer service team will work diligently to investigate the matter and find a suitable resolution.


16.3 Please note that we handle all complaints with the utmost seriousness and transparency. We will keep you informed throughout the resolution process and strive to reach a fair and amicable outcome.


16.4 If, after following the complaint process outlined above, you feel that your concerns have not been adequately addressed, you may be entitled to refer the matter to an independent dispute resolution service or relevant authorities in accordance with the laws and regulations of Tanzania.



17. Governing Law and Jurisdiction:


17.1. A contract will exist as soon as we issue our confirmation invoice. This contract and the terms be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Tanzania. Any disputes arising from or related to these Terms shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts in Tanzania.


By booking a safari with Mousebird Safaris, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms and Conditions.